The family of twins abducted after their father was killed by suspected kidnappers has disputed claims by the Edo State Police Command that the victims were rescued unharmed.
Speaking in an interview with Punch on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, the deceased’s brother, Okhale Ilabeshi, said the family paid a substantial ransom to secure the twins’ release.
The incident occurred on December 11 at Kalabar Quarters, Afokpella, in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, when armed men forced their way into the residence of Andrew Ilabeshi. During the attack, Ilabeshi was injured and his twin children, Emmanuel and Emmanuella, both 16 years old, were abducted. He later died from his injuries.
A resident of the area said the attackers had switched off Ilabeshi’s generator, and when he came out to check the cause, he was attacked, leaving him severely wounded.
The kidnappers were reportedly demanding ₦100 million as ransom.
Earlier, the Edo State Police Command spokesperson, Eno Ikoedem, had announced that the twins were rescued unharmed by a joint team of security operatives.
However, Okhale Ilabeshi dismissed the claim, stating that the twins were released only after the family paid a large ransom.
According to him, the abductors maintained contact with the family and later directed them to a location where the twins were eventually found.
He added that the twins were exhausted after their ordeal and were deeply distressed when they learned of their father’s death after regaining their freedom. He said they were aware their father had been badly injured but did not know he had died.
Ilabeshi also called for stronger intervention from the state and federal governments, noting that while the community has increased vigilante efforts, it has not been enough to curb kidnappings in the area.
